Shermaine De Ramos had a fairytale beginning to her modeling journey. Looking back, it was a sequence of fortunate events that led the 32-year-old to the career she has today, which includes being the Vice President of the Professional Models Association of the Philippines. She's done it all at this point, having walked countless runways and posed for various editorials within and beyond our shores.
Most recently, she was a picture of elegance as Cheetah Rivera's muse for our Best Filipino Fashion Designers spread last September 2023.
.jpg)
Ahead, we chat with the veteran model as she recounts her 16 years of experience in the industry. Read on, aspiring glamazons!
Preview Go-See: Shermaine De Ramos
How did you get your start in the modeling industry? Tell us the story of how you got “discovered.”
"I was in Glorietta and a guy asked me if I wanted to be a model, saying I had potential. Of course, I said no, thinking it might be a scam. At that time, I really didn't see myself in the modeling world. But after a month or so, I considered entering the modeling biz, knowing that there would be no harm in trying."
"I emailed Mercator, one of the best agencies here in Manila, and they asked me to go to their office for VTR filling. It’s funny because when I was at their office, Jonas Gaffud a.k.a. Mama J talked to me about joining Binibining Pilipinas. [laughs] Pressure! They told me they would [put me in training] and would wait for me to be at least 20 years old to join."
"I was with Mercator from 2007 to 2010, and I will forever be grateful to them. Fast forward to 2011, I was a freelance model already and was invited twice to join PMAP by Angel Augustin-Co. I [initially] declined the invitation, but come 2012, Phoemela Baranda invited me and I finally said yes. Seems like everything went well since I'm still here modeling."
How long have you been a model and what do you love the most about it?
"I’ve been in the industry since 2007. In the glamourous world of modeling, you will meet a lot of people and that’s one thing I love it about it. You'll be inspired by their stories, and how passionate and creative they are. You will learn and grow with them. This industry built my confidence and self-discipline, and taught me to work hard, take risks, and apply professionalism in everything I do."
Would you say being a model is your dream job? Why or why not?
"It was definitely not my dream job. Before, I thought a model should look perfect—tall with a pretty face and a blessed statuesque figure. I was only 5'7" when I started modeling, but somehow fate brought me here."
What was the biggest struggle you’ve faced in the modeling industry and how did you overcome it?
"Being a Filipina [with morena skin], I realized that the modeling the market here in the Philippines was very different. There were a lot of Brazilian and Russian models [when I started out.] So there was really a competition going on. Clients always preferred international models. It was something you couldn't fix or change. So I built my folio, collaborated with creatives, and created different looks."
What would you say is the most memorable project you’ve done as a model so far?
"For me, everything is memorable! But the 'most unforgettable' one was when I was in Beijing, China for my three-month modeling placement. I was booked for a catalogue job, wherein I [shot a thousand] clothes in eight hours. I was literally doing one [pose per click], just like the viral video you see in social media. I was even changing into the next set of clothes [right on the set]. I couldn't even go to a dressing room."
"They gave me few minutes to eat and I got back to the shoot right away. The way they work in China and in other countries I was placed in is very different compared to here in Manila. There, they pay you per hour, and if they say you are only allowed to shoot for eight hours, you have to pray that you will finish everything during that day! [laughs] I did this catalogue shoot for four to five times there. How can you forget [an experience like that]? It was fun but abso-bloody-lutely tiring!"
How do you see your career progressing in the future? Do you have a dream modeling gig?
"I’ve been in the industry for so long. I really don’t see myself doing modeling placements anymore, but I can still see myself doing shows and shoots here in Manila. I will be honest, I’m already picky with everything I do in this industry. But my dream modeling gig would be for Jacquemus, since [the brand is] so me! Also, Mugler, Saint Laurent, Fendi, and Balenciaga. Lahat nalang! [laughs]"
What’s something unique about you that sets you apart from all other models?
"Everyone is unique in their own way. One thing that sets me apart from others is my work ethic. Next is my adaptability to the industry. Lastly, [it's my constant] yearning to learn new things.
What’s your go-to model-off-duty look?
"My off-duty style would fall on the chic and minimalist side. You’ll definitely see me wearing an oversized blazer, trousers, denim pants or shorts, plain tees, and tank tops. I would pair everything with a cool pair of kicks."
In your own opinion, what are the characteristics of a great model?
"It’s not always about having a blessed statuesque figure or a perfect face. It is also about being professional, respectful, persistent and [adaptive]. There also must be an authenticity within you. Be a model's model."
What’s your advice to aspiring models?
"Breaking into the modeling industry is a dream come true for many young people. For you to be able to do it in the long run, you have to ask to yourself if you really feel passionate about it. Because it’s not an easy job, it will demand commitment and a strong work ethic."
"Grab the opportunities in front of you and take them as learning opportunities. Prepare yourself mentally, because there will always be rejections after rejections. If [you get criticized], use them to better yourself! Prepare yourself physically to be the best you can be. Ask for help from other people in the industry. Break the norm. Know your weaknesses. Know your advantages."
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
